Goa

Those who haven't visited Goa tend to imagine it as some kind of Indian Costa Brava but with more cosmic karma and, thanks to this image, many people vow never to set foot there. However, Goa, like everywhere in India, is never quite what you expect. In places the infamous hash-fueled days of Goa's golden hippy years are still alive and kicking and in others the all-inclusive package holiday is king. But these are two very narrow sides of the Goan experience and anyone who spends much time here will discover that Goa contains more variety and vitality than almost anywhere else in India. Head into Panaji (Panjim), one of India's smallest and most likable state capitals, and instead of self-contained tourist resorts and trinket-selling dreadlocks you'll discover a Portuguese pantry of flaking architectural delicacies spiced up with Indian exuberance. Inland, you can stand in greener-than-green fields picking vanilla pods or bathing with elephants.

The main draws of Goa are, of course, the beaches, which are every bit as cliche beautiful s they're supposed to be, but just as much of an attraction is Goa's intriguing fusion of colonial Portugal and modern India. There is almost nowhere else in India where the influence of the former colonial overlords remains as strong as it does in Goa and it's not at all unusual to find crucifixes hanging on walls next to posters of Shiva and groups of elderly Goan men conversing in Portuguese. Goa may not be as it once was but it's certainly just as magical.

Famous Cities in Goa

Highlights of Goa

Old Goa : The belfries and Baroque church facades looming over the trees on the banks of the Mandovi are all that remains of this once splendid colonial city.

Beach shacks : Tuck into a fresh kingfish, tandoori pomfret or lobster, washed down with feni or an ice-cool Kingfisher beer.

Flea market, Anjuna : Goa's most vibrant bazaar is the place to pick up the latest party gear, shop for touristy souvenirs, and watch the crowds go by.

Saturday Night Bazaar, between Baga and Anjuna : Cooler and less hassly than the Flea market, with better quality goods on sale and heaps more atmosphere.

Nine Bar, Vagator : The epicentre of hip Goa, where trance music accompanies the sunsets over the beach.

Arambol : An alternative resort with exquisite beaches and some of Asia's best budget restaurants.

Perreira-Braganza House, Chandor : The region's most extravagant colonial-era mansion, crammed with period furniture and fittings.

Sunset stroll, Palolem : Tropical sunsets don't come much more romantic than at this idyllic palm-fringed cove in the hilly deep south.

Accommodation in Goa

Deluxe Hotels

Luxury Hotels

Budget Hotels

How to reach Goa

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Rail :

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